A well-made Plymouth cocktail is smooth, balanced, and effortlessly elegant. It’s a classic gin-based drink with a rich history and a crisp, citrusy finish. Whether you’re a longtime gin lover or just starting to explore classic cocktails, this one’s worth adding to your repertoire.
Plymouth
I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to perfect its flavor. Let’s walk through everything you need to make a Plymouth cocktail that’s just right—smooth, refreshing, and full of character.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) Plymouth Gin
- 1 oz (30ml) Dry Vermouth
- 2 dashes Orange Bitters
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Glass: A chilled martini glass works best, but a coupe glass is a great alternative if you prefer a more vintage feel.
How to Make a Plymouth Cocktail
- Fill a mixing glass with ice. Pour in the Plymouth Gin and Dry Vermouth.
- Stir for about 30 seconds—this chills the drink without over-diluting it.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Add two dashes of Orange Bitters.
- Garnish with a lemon twist. Run it around the rim of the glass before dropping it in to enhance the citrus aroma.
Tip: Always use fresh citrus for garnish—it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
What to Serve with a Plymouth Cocktail
A well-paired snack can make this drink even better. Here are a few favorites:
- Charcuterie: Salty cured meats contrast beautifully with the crispness of the cocktail.
- Smoked Salmon: The rich, smoky flavor pairs well with the gin’s botanical notes.
- Dark Chocolate: A square of dark chocolate enhances the citrus and herbal flavors in the drink.
I love serving this cocktail with a small plate of snacks—it turns a simple drink into a sophisticated experience.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your glass first. A cold glass keeps the drink at the perfect temperature.
- Stir, don’t shake. Shaking creates air bubbles and dilutes the drink too much. Stirring keeps it silky smooth.
- Adjust the gin-to-vermouth ratio. Like it drier? Use less vermouth. Prefer a little more aromatics? Add an extra splash.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are a few ways to tweak the classic Plymouth cocktail:
Plymouth Dry Martini
- Swap the Dry Vermouth for Lillet Blanc for a lighter, slightly floral twist.
- Stir with ice, strain, and serve with a green olive instead of a lemon twist.
Plymouth Negroni
- Add Campari and Sweet Vermouth for a bold, bittersweet take.
- Use equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Stir with ice and garnish with an orange peel.
Plymouth Fizz
- Add fresh lemon juice and simple syrup, then top with soda water.
- Shake the gin, vermouth, lemon juice, and syrup with ice, strain into a highball glass, and finish with a splash of club soda.
Make-ahead tip: You can pre-mix the gin and vermouth in a small bottle and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just stir over ice and add bitters.
Common Questions
Can I use any gin for this cocktail?
Technically, yes, but Plymouth Gin has a softer, slightly earthier flavor than London Dry Gin, making it the best choice for this drink.
What’s the difference between Plymouth Gin and London Dry Gin?
Plymouth Gin is less dry and has a rounder, more citrus-forward flavor, while London Dry Gin is sharper and more juniper-heavy.
Can I make a batch in advance?
You can mix a larger quantity of gin and vermouth ahead of time, but it’s best stirred with ice and served fresh for the best flavor.
What’s the best way to garnish this cocktail?
A lemon twist is the classic choice, but you can experiment with an olive or even a sprig of rosemary for a different aroma.
How can I lower the alcohol content?
Increase the vermouth ratio or add a splash of soda water for a lighter version.
A Plymouth cocktail is simple, elegant, and endlessly enjoyable. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a variation, this drink always delivers a smooth, refreshing experience. So grab your ingredients, stir up a glass, and enjoy!
